Freedom of choice
Scripture: Always rejoice, constantly pray, in everything give thanks. For this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18(NET)
The greatest gift God has given us is the freedom of choice. Many pessimists will tell you that is not truly a gift because our lives are hardwired for pain and trouble and we do not have a choice in what happens to us. This statement can be considered to be true.
However, the choice we exercise is in our response to what happens determines our emotional response. When we get bad news we usually choose to say that we have been victimised by life, that it is unfair and we do not understand why this always happens to us. We are then left feeling helpless.
The other side of the coin is that we can choose to respond by saying that there is always something to be grateful for notwithstanding what the bad news might be. In some situations that may be almost impossible, but with the passage of time and the gift of hindsight we may discover that there was the proverbial ‘silver lining’ to be found some time after that situation.
Jesus said in John 16:33 (NET) “I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In the world you have trouble and suffering, but take courage – I have conquered the world.” Jesus knew that he would have to suffer the cross if he was to make atonement for us.
How have you responded to some bad news and what did you think of the choice or choices you made at that time? What did you think a while later in retrospect?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, Teach me how to make the choices that move me from despair to joy in the life I have in you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Reflection:
It is my suggestion that you journal your thoughts and experiences, even your feelings, as a means of pondering what you have read. Asking questions of the material and of yourself is the best way to learn. Use your journal to record your thoughts.
Do you have any feedback or suggestions you would like to share with us?
Please do so by emailing me at: giulio@bibman.au
Giulio …
